Harris County Judge Ed Emmett makes a case for some city-county mergers Thursday during his Greater Houston Partnership State of the County address.

Photo By Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

Harris County Judge Ed Emmett announces that the proposition to restore the Astrodome was voted down during an election watch party at Reliant Center Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2013, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle )

Democrat Ahmad Hassan has ended his campaign for Harris County judge, saying incumbent Republican Ed Emmett should be given another four-year term to finish projects vital to the community.

Hassan, owner of the Katy-based Alexandria Realty and Mortgage, said he decided to withdraw after a recent meeting with Emmett, the county's top administrator since 2007.

"It was not an easy decision," Hassan said. "I am a leader. I've never withdrawn from anything."

Hassan, an Egyptian immigrant who obtained American citizenship 32 years ago, said helping improve the nation is more important to him than holding political office.

Campaign goals

Hassan said his campaign challenge would have disrupted Emmett's ability to shepherd county affairs. With Hassan's withdrawal, Emmett will run unopposed in November.

Emmett said he met with Hassan earlier this week.

"I do have things I'm trying to accomplish - the mental health pilot program at the jail, regional governance, the Astrodome," Emmett said. "I thanked him. I thought it was an honorable thing to do. He is a successful person, and he truly wants to give back. I can appreciate that."

Hassan said he would be willing to consult with Emmett on county issues at the judge's request.

History of rejection

"Sure," said Emmett. "In fact, in his community, I'm fairly well-known. He and I probably could have dinner together and see what their interests are."

Hassan unsuccessfully challenged U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee as a Republican in 2006; unsuccessfully sought the Democratic nomination for county judge in 2008 and 2010; and unsuccessfully sought the Democratic nomination for Precinct 3 county commissioner in 2012.